and Mr. Daveberta...I hope you can explain for us how the president of the SU can harp about funds lacking for the PSE system when a) tuition is (god forbid) frozen and b) the advanced ed budget has grown by 30% over 3 years...

I could argue with an anonymous blog commentator on the merits of corporate tax cuts, but I really don't have the interest.

As well, if you have questions for the SU President, I'm sure you can ask him if you really want to (I really don't profess to speak on behalf of him or any other individual).

But, my reaction...

a) Tuition hasn't been "frozen," but has been covered by the provincial government through Centennial Rebates to the University - the U of A BOG raised tuition by the max both this and last year, but the Alberta taxpayer, not the general student population, are covering the costs. As well, the question of what happens when the tuition rebates are discontinued is up in the air.

b) Yes, funding has gone up, but Alberta is still behind when you take into account the 20% growth in the student population over the past 10 years (during the cuts). Advanced Education is only now beginning to reach the levels of funding that existed in the pre-cut period in 1992/93 when the student population was 20% smaller - so funding to compensate for the growth in enrollment should be expected. As well, deferred maintenance is another important issue (of which the U of A has over $600 Million).

All this vision "talk" is so empty it's not even funny. There is a vision for Alberta it was articulated in yesterday's budget in the section called "Strategic Plan". It outlines exactly what direction Alberta is going. I'd read it if I were you because it talks about the committment to a strong economy, an educated workforce, extensive R&D and investing in infrastructure.

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The opinions expressed on this blog represent my own and not those of my employer or any organization I may be affiliated with.In addition, my thoughts and opinions change from time to time. I consider this a necessary consequence of having an open mind. This blog is intended to provide a semi-permanent point in time snapshot and manifestation of the various ideas running around my brain, and as such any thoughts and opinions expressed within out-of-date posts may not the same, nor even similar, to those I may hold today.

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Who is Dave Cournoyer? I am a writer, blogger, communicator, occasional media pundit, political watcher, & proud life-long Albertan. I studied Political Science at the University of Alberta and have served as Vice-President (External) of the U of A Students' Union, Chair of the Council of Alberta University Students, and communications coordinator for Alberta's official opposition party.